She is a publishing sensation whose 90 books have sold more than 20 million copies and have made her the most borrowed author from libraries for four successive years.

Jacqueline Wilson’s contribution to literacy found further recognition yesterday when she became a dame in the New Year Honours.

The author is best known for The Story of Tracy Beaker, but it was as the children’s laureate that she particularly championed a love of reading.

The honour recognises outstanding work in championing the cause of libraries and literacy and supporting charities, including the Royal National Institute for the Blind.

She said yesterday: “I tend to write about vulnerable children and it’s a privilege now to be able to work with various charities to try to make a difference in their lives. I’m not sure being a dame will make a difference in my life but it’s certainly a delightful title. The dictionary says that a dame is a woman of value or distinction. Well, I will try to live up to that definition.”

She added: “I think it’s a great honour, not just for me, but for all the many children’s writers who care passionately about their work.”

Other writers honoured included Hanif Kureishi, best known for My Beautiful Laundrette, who is appointed CBE for services to literature and drama. Sir Ian McKellen is appointed Companion of Honour for services to drama and equality. In 1988 he publicly “outed” himself on BBC radio during a discussion on the Government’s Section 28 legislation. Yesterday he said: “It is particularly pleasing that ‘equality’ is included in my citation.”

Among thespians, Richard Griffiths is appointed OBE, and Julie Walters and Leslie Phillips are appointed CBE.

Pianist Stan Tracey, described as “the godfather of British jazz”, is appointed CBE.

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